Man in French court over missing endangered monkeys

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Suspect Faces Charges in Stolen Monkey Case

In a recent development, a 20-year-old man is under investigation for the theft of 14 endangered squirrel monkeys from a zoo near Marseille, France.

Stolen Primates

Belonging to the Saimiri genus, the monkeys were stolen a week ago, sparking concerns for their well-being. The primates, each microchipped, hold significant black market value, with prosecutors suspecting the involvement of an organized gang.

Investigation and Arrest

Senior prosecutor Samuel Finielz revealed that the suspect's vehicle was spotted near the crime scene, indicating a premeditated plan involving multiple individuals. The 20-year-old denies any connection to the theft but was arrested and is now facing charges of theft, holding, and transporting a protected species as part of an organized gang.

Monkeys Recovered, Concerns Persist

One of the stolen monkeys was found in the suspect's apartment building in Marseille. However, eleven primates are still missing, raising worries about their welfare. Two monkeys, a mother and child, were left outside a residence in Marseille, prompting a call to the Society for the Protection of Animals (SPA).

Legal Ramifications

Prosecutors seek a maximum sentence of seven years in jail for the accused. The suspect's custody is requested to prevent evidence destruction and potential contact with accomplices.

Urgent Appeal

Authorities urge anyone with information about the whereabouts of the missing monkeys to contact the police. Experts emphasize the limited life expectancy of the primates without appropriate care. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges in protecting endangered species from illegal activities.